Although eye drops are a common component of therapy for many eye diseases, the manner in which we utilize them can have a big influence on how well they work. "Eye drops are the most common form of eye medication," stated Dr. Jai Kelkar, an ophthalmologist and the head of the NIO Super Specialty Hospital. But they must be handled with care. Even minor errors can silently harm the eyes, especially in diseases like glaucoma that don't manifest symptoms in the early stages.

The typical errors that individuals commit when applying eye drops were recorded by Dr. Jai Kelkar:

1. Applying eye drops without a prescription from a doctor

The likelihood of developing cataracts, glaucoma, or even drug-resistant infections can be raised by using steroid or antibiotic eye drops without a doctor's prescription or supervision.

2. Utilizing unclean hands or contacting the eye with the dropper

Infections or contamination of the entire bottle can result from using unwashed hands or touching the dropper tip to the eye while administering the eye drops.

3. Refraining from closing one's eyes right after applying the drops

Right after administering the eye drops, patients should keep their eyes closed for at least two minutes.

4. Using expired or opened eye drops beyond one month

Once opened, most eye drops should be discarded after a month to prevent infections or irritation. 

5. Contact lens users ignoring precautions

Unless labeled lens-safe, contact lenses should always be removed before applying medicated drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting lenses.

6. Lack of support for children and older adults

Children and older people are usually at a higher risk of misuse. They are either scared, or they have shaky hands. Taking help from a family member or a caretaker makes it easier for them to use the eye drops.

7. Ignoring warning signs

If symptoms like severe pain, itching, redness, blurry vision, discharge, or light sensitivity occur, immediately stop using the drops and consult an eye doctor.

Tips to apply eye drops correctly:

The ophthalmologist further noted down a 6-step procedure to apply eye drops the right way:

1. Wash your hands.

2. Tilt your head back.

3. Pull the lower lid down.

4. Put just one drop in the pocket formed by pulling the lower lid down.

5. Close your eyes for at least two minutes.

6. Once opened same bottle can’t be used after a month.

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